Big Possum Creek (Heiss Mountain) Trailhead of the Cumberland Trail Free Listing

9.5-Mile Moderately Strenuous Journey Through Possum Creek Gorge

The Big Possum Creek (Heiss Mountain) Trailhead is a premier access point on the Cumberland Trail, serving as the southern terminus of the Possum Creek Gorge Section. From here, hikers embark on a moderately strenuous 9.5-mile one-way route to the Retro-Hughes Road trailhead, traversing scenic overlooks, deep river gorges, rock formations, waterfalls, and rapids. The trail features approximately 1,000 feet of cumulative elevation gain and loss along its length.

Basic Information

• Trail Name: Big Possum Creek (Heiss Mountain) Trailhead — Cumberland Trail, Possum Creek Gorge Section
• Category: Hiking Trail
• Address: 1840 Heiss Mountain Rd, Soddy-Daisy, Tennessee 37379
• Phone: (423) 562-1267
• Email: Not provided
• Website: Website
• Operating Hours: Daily, 8 AM–4 PM

Trail Overview

• Distance: 9.5 miles one-way
• Difficulty: Moderately strenuous
• Elevation Change: Approximately 1,000 feet gain and loss
• Highlights: Scenic overlooks, deep river gorges, rock formations, waterfalls, and rapids
• Trail Section: Possum Creek Gorge Section of the Cumberland Trail

Trailheads & Access

• Southern Terminus (Start): Big Possum Creek (Heiss Mountain) Trailhead — accessible via Heiss Mountain Road, just off Tennessee 111. Parking is available along the roadside near the trailhead.
• Northern Terminus (End): Retro-Hughes Road Trailhead — accessible from US 27.

Camping Along the Trail

• Little Possum South Campsite — Located at mile marker 3.2. Offers tent sites with access to creek water (purification required).
• Little Possum North Campsite — Located at mile marker 7.1. Offers tent sites with access to creek water (purification required).

Trail Highlights

• Southern gateway to the spectacular Possum Creek Gorge Section of the Cumberland Trail
• 9.5-mile one-way route with manageable elevation change (~1,000 ft) for fit hikers
• Two established backcountry campsites at miles 3.2 and 7.1
• Dramatic scenery: river gorges, waterfalls, rapids, and rock formations
• Part of the larger Cumberland Trail system managed by the Cumberland Trails Conference
• Access from two ends: Heiss Mountain Rd (south) or Retro-Hughes Rd from US 27 (north)

Trail Preparation Checklist

• ☑ Carry sufficient water — creek water is available at campsites but must be purified
• ☑ Pack enough food for the full 9.5-mile distance (approximately a full day hike)
• ☑ Wear appropriate footwear — the terrain includes rocky sections and potential creek crossings
• ☑ Download or print a trail map before departing (available via the Cumberland Trails Conference website)
• ☑ Check weather forecasts before visiting — the Little Possum Creek ford can be dangerous after heavy rains
• ☑ Inform someone of your planned route and expected return time
• ☑ Bring a headlamp if planning a long or multi-day trip

Questions to Ask Before You Hike

• What are current creek levels and is the Little Possum Creek ford passable today?
• Are the backcountry campsites at miles 3.2 and 7.1 currently open and available?
• Are there any trail closures or hazards on the Possum Creek Gorge Section?
• Is a permit or registration required for overnight camping on this section?
• Is the northern terminus parking at Retro-Hughes Road accessible for a car shuttle?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Where is the Big Possum Creek (Heiss Mountain) Trailhead located? The trailhead is located at 1840 Heiss Mountain Rd, Soddy-Daisy, Tennessee 37379, accessible via Heiss Mountain Road just off Tennessee 111.
• How can I contact the Cumberland Trail office? Call (423) 562-1267 or visit the Website for trail information.
• How long is this section of the Cumberland Trail? The Possum Creek Gorge Section is 9.5 miles one-way from the Big Possum Creek Trailhead to the Retro-Hughes Road Trailhead.
• Are there campsites on the trail? Yes — Little Possum South Campsite at mile 3.2 and Little Possum North Campsite at mile 7.1 offer tent sites with creek water access (purification required).
• Is the listing information current? Information is verified periodically. Contact the trail office directly to confirm current trail conditions and details.

Community Connection

The Cumberland Trail and its Possum Creek Gorge Section represent a beloved natural resource for outdoor enthusiasts across the Sequatchie Valley and surrounding region, drawing hikers from throughout Tennessee and beyond to experience the area’s rugged gorge terrain and scenic river landscapes.

Directions

• Map & Directions: 1840 Heiss Mountain Rd, Soddy-Daisy, Tennessee 37379 — from Tennessee 111, turn onto Heiss Mountain Road and follow to the trailhead parking area.

Important Notes

• Ford Warning: The trail includes a ford of Little Possum Creek. Exercise extreme caution during and after heavy rains — water levels can rise rapidly.
• Water Purification: Creek water is available at both campsites but must be treated before drinking.
• Trail Length: At 9.5 miles one-way, this is a full day hike for most hikers — plan accordingly with food, water, and daylight hours.
• 📝 Last verified: April 2026.

Whether you’re a day hiker or backpacker, the Big Possum Creek (Heiss Mountain) Trailhead is your gateway to one of the Cumberland Trail’s most scenic and rewarding gorge sections.